Jyotsna Shah’s write up, “Prem Shabda nahin.etc” in Gujarat Samachar is refreshing amid gloomy reports. It is healthy lateral thinking about St Valentine Day celebrations versus traditional/familial values that are observed by Hindus.
Hindus appear to be stoic, conservative and narrow minded in present free for all rebellious environments and peers. But we must not forget that Hindu sages recognized sentiment of love and some flirting. Such recognition preached the art of loving known as “Kama sutra”, thousand years before St Valentine. Hindus are prone to exuberant fun and romance if and when endorsed and accepted by parents and society at large, and observed in religious ethos and in controlled environments.
St Valentine’s day appears to be out of place in society where love, romance and marriages are arranged. Parents frown upon youngsters who behave as if parents have no say in matrimonial matters. Parental involvement is basic foundation block of family, community and whole society. Parents act as marriage consellors and fortify the marriage in times of crises. Arranged marriage is considered as guaranteed successful marriage, where the joy cascades to parents et al.
That is why some groups oppose celebrations that allow flirting without responsible commitment by the couple.
Ramesh Jhalla
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